FORM, FUNCTION & FLAIR
I first encountered the Cape 50 at the 2023 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show, and it made an immediate impression. Sleek, purposeful, and impeccably finished, this is a motor yacht created by a designer intent on building the boat he could not find elsewhere. It reflects experience and a clear understanding of what matters when cruising offshore.
Few builders combine technical expertise and real-world boating knowledge as convincingly as Steve Campbell. Through Composites Constructions, Campbell has spent decades producing specialist vessels and composite components for both marine and aeronautical applications. A former ocean racer, he brings a practical, performance-focused mindset to every design decision. The Cape 50 reflects that approach: light, strong, and engineered for demanding conditions rather than sheltered marinas.
Designed with Australian waters firmly in mind, the Cape 50 is intended to inspire confidence when conditions deteriorate. Spend time examining the details, and it becomes clear that nothing is there by accident.
The plumb bow is not simply a styling cue. It extends the waterline, increases interior volume, and creates a fine entry that slices cleanly through chop. Underway, the hull settles into a balanced, predictable running attitude that offshore skippers will appreciate. Aft sections feature broad flare and pronounced chines, borrowing from proven sportfishing hull forms. These provide lift, enhance stability, and deflect spray effectively. The sheerline flows cleanly aft to a wide, flat planing surface designed specifically around Volvo Penta IPS propulsion. Squared chines add further stability both underway and at anchor, an important consideration for extended time aboard. A subtle tumblehome (where the hull sides slope inward as they rise) leads into a reverse transom, blending traditional proportions with contemporary detailing without resorting to unnecessary embellishment.
Taken together, these elements create a cohesive design rather than a collection of styling features. The Cape 50 balances European-influenced elegance with the robust seakeeping required in Australasian conditions, resulting in a motor yacht that looks right and feels right offshore.
DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION
The mentioned Cape 50’s sedan profile, plumb bow, and clean transom geometry reference traditional motor yacht forms while remaining thoroughly modern. Every line serves a function, with form following performance throughout. Construction is vacuum-infused fibreglass with foam cores, providing an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Carbon-fibre reinforcement above the waterline reduces overall mass and lowers the centre of gravity, thereby improving stability and ride quality. With a light displacement of approximately 12.5 tonnes, the Cape 50 is notably lighter than many yachts in its class, delivering tangible benefits in efficiency, handling, and responsiveness. Fit and finish are consistent with the yacht’s premium positioning. Deck surfaces are cleanly executed, fittings are robust and sensibly placed, and there is a clear emphasis on durability over decoration. The result is a motor yacht that feels engineered rather than styled, a distinction that experienced boaters will recognise and value.
ON DECK & OUTDOOR LIVING
Life on deck is where the Cape 50 truly shows its versatility. The cockpit is spacious and inviting, with deep, comfortable seating and a large teak table suited to entertaining. Whether it’s a casual brunch, an afternoon with family, or a sunset cocktail, the space encourages social interaction without feeling cramped. The teak-lined swim deck provides easy water-access, and the built-in barbecue and freshwater shower add convenience and flexibility for summer cruising. Wide side decks lead forward to a sun pad on the foredeck, offering multiple vantage points to enjoy the sea, sun, or simply the horizon. Every aspect of the deck layout has been carefully considered to ensure safe movement around the motor yacht while still leaving plenty of room for entertaining.
INTERIOR COMFORTS
Below deck, the Cape 50 balances practicality and comfort. The galley is compact but well-equipped, with quality appliances, ample storage, and fiddles on the benchtops to secure items in motion. Large salon windows with electric panes and overhead skylights fill the interior with natural light, providing a sense of openness that belies the yacht’s dimensions.
Accommodation includes a forward owner’s suite with a double berth and generous storage, and a guest cabin with Pullman-style bunks. The head and shower are full standing height, a feature always appreciated on a 15-metre yacht. Thoughtful timber finishes, integrated storage, and large windows create a luxurious, functional space suitable for short escapes or extended coastal cruising.
HELM & ELECTRONICS
The helm demonstrates a commitment to ergonomics and modern technology. Comfortable seating, twin Garmin multifunction displays, and integration with Volvo Penta’s Glass Cockpit system make navigation, engine monitoring, and systems control straightforward.
CZone digital switching and Zipwake interceptors enhance stability and comfort, keeping the yacht level under varying conditions. Joystick control via the Volvo Penta IPS pods allows precise manoeuvring, particularly useful in tight marina environments.
PERFORMANCE & HANDLING
Powered by twin 440 hp Volvo Penta D6-IPS600 engines, the Cape 50 delivers efficient and responsive performance. Although I inspected the motor yacht dockside at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show, reports confirm the IPS pod units provide smooth acceleration, responsive handling, and excellent control in close quarters.
Cruising speeds between 18 and 28 knots provide a balance of comfort, efficiency, and range. Top speeds approach 32 knots, but the yacht’s real strength is its predictable, dry handling in a variety of sea conditions. Whether in coastal swell, choppy bays, or offshore passages, the Cape 50 is designed to inspire confidence in the skipper.
VALUE & MARKET POSITION
Starting from the mid-$1.9 million range, the Cape 50 offers strong value for a turnkey Australian-built motor yacht. Optional extras such as custom paint, full teak decks, and advanced navigation systems allow owners to personalise their yacht without being forced to add every luxury feature.
Compared with competitors, the Cape 50 stands out for build quality, feature breadth, and attention to detail. For many buyers, it strikes a practical balance between performance, luxury, and usability, delivering a ready-to-go cruiser that performs as well as it looks.
SUMMARY
The Cape 50 combines classic aesthetics, modern design, practical performance, and true cruising comfort. Its spacious, well-thought-out living areas, sophisticated helm, and efficient hull design make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a stylish, capable motor yacht. With Australian craftsmanship at its core, the Cape 50 delivers confidence, convenience, and enjoyment on every voyage. It is a yacht that meets the demands of both coastal cruising and longer offshore passages, offering style, substance, and turnkey usability in one package.
SPECIFICATIONS
LOA 15m
Beam 4.4m
Draft 1.0m
Displacement 12.5 tonnes
Hull Vacuum-infused fibreglass, foam-cored, carbon fibre reinforcements above waterline
Engines Twin Volvo Penta D6-IPS600, 440 hp each
Fuel Capacity 2 × 800 L (1,600 L total)
Water Capacity 600 L
Berths 4–6 (Owner + Guest + Pullman bunks)
Head/Showers 1 full head, separate shower
Cruising Speed 18–28 knots
Head/Showers 1 full head, separate shower
Top Speed ~32 knots
